Weak Downstream Demand for Methanol: Impact Analysis on Prices

Chempricehub, October 23:

Traditional Methanol Downstream (Formaldehyde, Acetic Acid, Dimethyl Ether): A slight seasonal recovery was observed during the "Golden September and Silver October" period, but demand elasticity remains weak. Formaldehyde consumption edged up modestly due to rigid demand from the board and home decoration sectors. Meanwhile, increased maintenance shutdowns at acetic acid plants led to a decline in operating rates and weaker procurement activity. Overall, traditional downstream sectors are unlikely to offset the drop in methanol demand caused by reduced MTO (Methanol-to-Olefins) feedstock consumption.